Point-of-Care COVID-19 Antigen Test Kits

The Centers of Medicaid & Medicare Services announced that nursing homes will receive point-of-care COVID-19 antigen test kits and the first round of deliveries started in late July. Facilities across the US will receive one diagnostic test machine and enough test kits for a 6-week supply to test residents and employees.

• CLIA Waiver is required
• Tests must be ordered by a healthcare professional licensed under applicable state law or a pharmacist under HHS.
• NHSN data will be used for subsequent deliveries of the equipment and test kits. Priority will be given but not limited to the following:
  • Providers with three or more COVID-19 positive cases
  • Number of positive cases in the greater community
• Online training will be made available to providers by the manufacturer
• Each test will cost around $25.00 and after the initial shipment, nursing homes will be responsible for procuring future supplies.
• Reorder kits will be through a “Concierge” – one stop shop

There are two types of testing equipment:

• Quidel Sofia 2
• BD Veritor System
  • Both systems can complete 15-20 tests and results in an hour.
  • Sensitivity at 85-95%
  • Positive tests are 100% accurate
  • False positive tests results are possible

Recommendations: 

• Ensure appropriate training is completed and documented for designated users for the specific model sent to your facility.
• Ensure appropriate safety precautions are ongoing and fully implemented for those performing the tests and decontamination of the equipment is properly completed per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Ensure tests are repeated when indicated.
• Ensure materials are stored appropriately.
• Designate a person or persons to inventory and reorder testing supplies.
• Develop protocols with your medical staff and clinical leaders to ensure appropriate action is taken when a person with symptoms tests negative and there is reason to appropriately isolate and seek a diagnostic PCR test for COVID-19.
• Review the AHCA FAQs and HHS FAQs

If you have question or need assistance with applying for a CLIA Waiver, email ldavenport@ihca.org